Digestive

GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease involving reflux symptoms and, in some cases, swallowing complications.

Regulatory summaries checked against eCFR current through July 9, 2026 · condition-library-2026.07.09 · record fdb828fef72d

Quick rating reference

How VA may evaluate GERD

Select a diagnostic code or shared formula to see the criteria that apply to that manifestation.

Verified summaries are labeled

Potential codesDC 7206

Verified evaluation levels0% · 10% · 30% · 50% · 80%

Rating paths shown1

Diagnostic-code criteria

Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Current criteria focus on documented esophageal stricture, dysphagia treatment, and serious complications.

Plain-language summary verified

EvaluationPlain-language criteria summary

History without daily symptoms or medication

There is a documented history but no daily symptoms or need for daily medication.

10%

Stricture controlled by daily medication

A documented esophageal stricture requires daily medication to control dysphagia and is otherwise asymptomatic.

30%

Recurrent stricture requiring limited dilation

A recurrent stricture causing dysphagia requires dilation no more than twice per year.

50%

Stricture requiring intensive treatment

Dysphagia requires at least 3 dilations per year, steroid-assisted dilation at least annually, or an esophageal stent.

80%

Severe stricture with major complications

Recurrent or refractory stricture causes dysphagia plus aspiration, undernutrition, or substantial weight loss and requires surgery or a PEG tube.

Current criteria require specified objective documentation such as barium swallow, CT, or endoscopy. Many older internet summaries are outdated.

This reference explains the schedule; it does not predict an individual rating. VA determines the applicable code and evaluation from the complete record.

Overview

GERD documentation can include diagnosis, testing, medication, swallowing symptoms, regurgitation, aspiration, weight or nutrition effects, and treatment response.

What VA measures

GERD has its own diagnostic code within the digestive-system schedule. Current criteria focus on documented esophageal narrowing or swallowing impairment and the treatment needed, rather than heartburn alone.

Documented swallowing impairment or esophageal narrowing

Frequency and severity of symptoms

Need for dilation, stent, surgery, or dietary modification

Aspiration, nutrition, or other complications

Evidence that may be useful

Gastroenterology diagnosis and notes
Endoscopy, imaging, or swallow-study results
Medication and dietary-treatment history
Urgent-care or hospital records for complications
Symptom history

Helpful documentation habits

Distinguish heartburn from difficulty swallowing
Record medication dose, response, and breakthrough symptoms
Keep procedure and test reports
Document weight or nutrition effects with a clinician

Common preparation gaps

Relying on over-the-counter medication history alone
Using outdated rating summaries without checking current § 4.114
Leaving swallowing symptoms undocumented

Diagnostic-code map

A diagnosis or body part can involve more than one code. The applicable code depends on the medical findings and manifestations in the record.

DC 7206§ 4.114

Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Current criteria address documented esophageal stricture and dysphagia treatment or complications.

Official criteria